Rishab Shetty Addresses Language Controversy: A Deep Dive into Pride and Respect

In an era where regional cinema is garnering unprecedented national and global attention, actor-director Rishab Shetty found himself at the center of a linguistic debate. The acclaimed filmmaker, celebrated for his monumental success with 'Kantara', recently attended an event in Hyderabad that sparked considerable discussion after he chose to speak exclusively in Kannada, his native tongue.

The incident unfolded during a high-profile gathering in the Telugu-speaking state of Telangana.

While many admired his steadfast commitment to his linguistic roots, others questioned the choice, especially given the pan-Indian reach of his recent work and the expectation of accommodating a diverse audience.

Addressing the ensuing 'language row' head-on, Rishab Shetty offered a clear and compelling clarification, articulating his stance with both pride and respect.

“I am from Karnataka, my first language is Kannada,” he stated, emphasizing his origins. He further elaborated, “I’ve come here as an artist and director. I’ve started my journey from the Kannada industry. So naturally, I would like to speak in Kannada.”

Shetty's explanation transcended a simple defense; it was a powerful affirmation of identity and artistic integrity.

He unequivocally clarified that his decision to speak in Kannada was not, in any way, a sign of disrespect towards other languages or cultures. Instead, it was an homage to his heritage and the foundation of his cinematic journey. “If I have to speak on a stage like this, I will definitely speak in my mother tongue.

I’m not saying I don’t respect other languages. I am here to speak about my film, my culture. So I will definitely speak in my language,” he asserted.

This sentiment resonates deeply with the core philosophy of 'Kantara' itself. The film, a gritty, culturally rich narrative rooted in the folklore of coastal Karnataka, achieved astounding success precisely because of its authentic portrayal of local traditions and stories.

Shetty's vision has always been to take hyper-local narratives and elevate them to a global stage, proving that authenticity is a universal language.

His unwavering commitment to Kannada cinema and culture has made him a beacon for regional pride. Shetty's journey exemplifies how staying true to one's roots can unlock immense creative potential and connect with audiences far beyond geographical and linguistic boundaries.

As he prepares for the highly anticipated prequel to 'Kantara', the discourse around his linguistic choice only reinforces his image as an artist deeply devoted to his cultural identity, championing the beauty and strength of regional narratives on a global platform.